Holly – from rescue pup to emotional support dog Article by Judy Strickland, Director of Hope House Counselling Centre, originally appeared on the Happy Tails website (https://www.happytailsmagazine.co.za/happy-tales/holly-from-rescue-pup-to-emotional-support-dog/)

Family programmes key to protecting children’s rights The latest Child Gauge, published by the University of Cape Town Children’s Institute, found that 33% of South African children are victims of sexual and physical abuse. This Human Right’s Day, local NGO Hope House Counselling Centre has emphasised the importance of safeguarding children’s rights through strengthening family units. “When abuse is taking […]

Drug prevention programmes needed at schools Children as young as six are exposed to and experimenting with substances like alcohol, dagga and glue. During Drug Awareness Week, which runs this week from 24 to 28 June, Hope House Counselling Centre is creating awareness around the impact that substances have on young people. The Cape Town based non-profit organisation runs prevention […]

RESS RELEASEStrengthening families key to tackling abuse Most abused children are harmed by a relative or someone they know. The University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute found this to be true in 80% abuse cases where the victim was under four years of age. In light of this, local NGO Hope House has put a spotlight on families during the […]

With child abductions, gang violence and rampant substance use making the news on a regular basis, community organisations are calling for attention to be paid to the mental health of younger generations. “Not only do many children experience abuse and violence directly in their homes and communities, but they are also exposed to trauma through the loss of friends and […]

Child Abuse features again and again in our headlines, telling just part of a much larger, darker story. We explore the power of counselling to counter the tragic and long-lasting effects of child abuse. “Baby Jamie – Mother charged with murder” – Times Live “Reiger Park toddler disappears” – Citizen Newpaper “School class is offered counselling after bus tragedy” – Umhlobo […]

The right course can boost a teen or families ability to face choices in just a few weeks. Hope House runs the Better Life Choices and Strengthening Families courses all over Cape Town. Denim or sequins, skateboard or guitar, silent or screaming, friends or enemies? We all make choices every few minutes…but teenagers are often making life-changing choices for the very […]